Guideline No. 49 – Sheds and Storage

An Exterior Alteration Application must be submitted for all sheds and outside storage sites. This includes any permanent structure built to house tools and provide extra storage outside the existing house.

Exterior Alteration Application Requirements

The application must include:

  • Diagrammed plot plan which shows the relationship of the shed to the house and property lines. Note: Applications without a diagrammed plot plan will not be accepted.
  • Statement as to the architectural style of the house/townhouse.
  • List of materials to be used. Include a description of the color along with all color samples (e.g., shed, house and trim).
  • Detailed drawing of the shed including elevation drawings.
  • Dimensions, style, and location of door(s).
  • A description of proposed landscape screening, if applicable. See GUIDELINE No.47—SCREENING.
Approval

 

  1. The shed will most likely be approved if the following criteria are met:
  2. Shed is located behind the house and as close to the rear of the house as possible. Sheds attached to the house are preferred. If a more desirable location such as the back of the owner’s lot in a heavily wooded area is available, the RHAC will give it consideration.
  3. FOR SHEDS ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE HOUSE: The shed is a sturdy, permanently anchored structure, which will be maintained.
  4. FOR SHEDS IN OTHER LOCATIONS ON THE LOT: The shed structure door/opening faces towards the homeowner’s property.
  5. Material is similar to the house (e.g., wood for wood siding houses). Composite material may be considered if it matches the style and material look of the house and is of the same quality and color. If the house is restyled, resided or paint color change is made, the shed must match.
  6. The shed does not include decorative embellishments (e.g., eagles, etc.). These are typically not approved.
  7. Size is based on lot size and is in reasonable proportion to the house and/or fenced area.
  8. Appropriate screening is provided where applicable. See GUIDELINE No.47­­—SCREENING.

NOTE: Townhouse and condominium associations may have further restrictions on sheds, so please check with your local association. The most restrictive guidelines will apply. Townhouse sheds will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.